Baku: President Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to José Ramos-Horta, the President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, in celebration of the nation's Independence Day, APA reports. According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev expressed his heartfelt congratulations to President Ramos-Horta and the people of Timor-Leste on this significant national occasion, the Proclamation of Independence. He noted the positive development of relations between Azerbaijan and Timor-Leste, highlighting President Ramos-Horta's visit to Azerbaijan last year as a pivotal moment in the bilateral relationship. President Aliyev underscored the importance of the friendly ties between the two countries, which are celebrating the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. He expressed optimism that these relations would continue to strengthen and that their collaboration within multilateral institutions would remain fruitful. In his letter, President Aliyev wished President Ramos-Horta good he alth, happiness, and success in his endeavors, while also extending wishes of lasting peace and prosperity to the people of Timor-Leste.